“Near Beers”

When I quit drinking five years ago, I didn’t have too terrible of a time with the cravings or have many withdrawal symptoms.

I did, however, still really appreciate drinking a cold, bubbly and refreshing beverage and particularly in social situations, it was nice to be able to do something with my hands.

Having never been a big soda pop person except in the form of a slush, I was on the hunt for a real beer substitute. I like sparkling water and started drinking it before it was trendy and available in a wide variety of tasty flavours so I was able to implement that option right away.

But, sometimes I desire other flavours and getting into the non-alcoholic game was something I had only done while pregnant with my boys and even then I didn’t really even bother.

With Summer on it’s way, I thought I would share some of my favourite ‘cold ones’ in the booze-free department for those interested, pregnant or those who just want to dial things back a bit:

• COOLERS/CIDERS: I like sweet stuff but not a fan of some of the non- alcoholic ciders as they are kinda syrupy, though I did find this brand that I like:

• LAGERS: By far the best bang-for-your-buck as far as taste goes is the Safeway Compliments Brand Blonde Lager or President’s Choice Blonde Brew

• HOPPY: I was a big fan of hoppy and dark real beers so here are my top wannabe favourites; Partake is a Canadian company that has levelled-up on the near beer situation. They also make a Pale Ale, a Blonde and an IPA. They could use a bit more fizz in their recipe but overall not a bad copycat. Available at Nature’s Fare and some other stores. Check them out :)

Heineken or Becks. Both are classics. You can’t go wrong with a cold Heiny or an Une Becks in a bottle.

OTHER IMPORTS: Warsteiner and Clausthaler…the lighter Clausthaler is alright but my favourite is the dry hopped one below.

RADLERS: Grolsch makes a good one, so does President’s Choice.

I liked red wine when I drank and I still haven’t found a great substitute that doesn’t taste like stank grapes or overly sweet budget grape juice. So really, what’s the point? However, if you have any suggestions, I’ll take them.

Lastly on the list are all the mocktails which are great refreshers for a hot sunny day…mojitos, margaritas and mango mules with ginger beer etc.

Plain water and herbal tea are timeless and the best choices for your health but sometimes, a near beer is the only way.

Cheers,

-Becky”